Inspired By You

Trivia Anyone?

2011-08-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

So the hubs and I will be trying our hand at trivia night again at the Hub. Should be interesting.

A quick history, and I do mean quick as there is not much to tell. I invited a few friends to join the hubs and I at trivia night. We took second place during round one, scoring a $25 in-house gift card, and first place in round two, a cool $50 cash. There were five of us, and because of our sweet sweet success we were able to get a pizza, a salad, french fries, kobe sliders, a pitcher of beer with a side of beer, pesto chicken, side salad, more pizza and side salad, even MORE pizza and side salad, cheese cake, and a bigass brownie for ten bucks each. Yes $10 out of pocket each! Pretty sweet score!

Fast-foward a few weeks and the hubs and I go solo to The Harmon for their trivia night...... wah, wah, WAAAAHHHH! A big night of bust. I am not the brains of this operation, and without his trusty sidekick, the hubs didn't do well himself. Granted the way trivia runs at the Harmon is garbage, but still.

So tonight we will adventure out again to the Hub. B will possibly join in the fun, and maybe, just maybe we might win some casheesh.

Seriously? 11 in 2011?

2011-08-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

A quick look at my stats, and I have only posted 11 times during the entire year of 2011 (not counting this post). WTF Dee? I posted 113 times in 2010. My pimpin' is slackin', and I will turn it up.

Some changes I've made to my life. No, I have not finally lost and kept off the weight, thanks for reminding me. I am however eating betterish, and working outish, so maybe something will happen. Ish. What I really want to talk about is that I am no longer taking Effexor, and I have quit smoking. Yup. I did that. Little old me actually stuck to something. :)

I stopped taking the Effexor about a month ago. The reasoning behind that was I don't have a job, don't know when/if I actually will get a job, and well, it just felt like it was time. The first two days were fine, and then the Zzztt Zzztts came. Oh, and did I mention there were days I felt like I had the flu? No? Cuz I did. And just about a month out and I'm still experiencing the random side effect every now and then. A Zzztt Zzztt here, trouble sleeping there, and headaches. I hate headaches. Acetaminophen is my friend. I feel great about being off the meds. I have actually cried. I haven't really felt and cried for a long time. It felt nice.

Smoking. A dirty little habit, and an even dirtier little secret. I started smoking in April I think. It was a two-a-day habit. And that's just how I liked it. Come summer though and I was smoking anywhere from 2 to 9! That's some serious usage jumping. Well, last week I decided I was done. The morning smoke was harsh, and it was doing nothing to help the stress, and that pathetic hope I had that it would help suppress my appetite? That was a stupid idea. So I said no more. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday went by. Totally breeze. But come Friday, I was starting to sweat. I wanted it. I NEEDED it. Or so I thought. I bought a pack, smoked one, smoked two, smoked three. Fuck. I told myself I was going to quit.

Saturday morning I wake up and after brunch I head out for a smoke. Nothing. It did nothing for me. I didn't even smoke the whole thing. I stubbed it about halfway through, and didn't think about it the rest of the day. Take two. I know! Why the hell was I giving it take two! Sunday morning, head out for a smoke. I force myself to smoke the whole thing, but I'm done. I have no desire to smoke anymore. Hopefully I didn't do myself any serious long-term lasting damage over those five months or so.

It always comes back to the weight though. No matter how successful I am elsewhere, I will never be truly content until I get the weight off. But now that I am not smoking, not taking those pills, and trying to eat better and work out, things should get going in the right direction.

On Joblessness

2011-08-22T08:28:00.001-07:00

I have never been unemployed before. No, I take that back. I have never been unemployed when it was not my choice. Stupid budget cuts. I have been the blindsided victim of a targeted reduction in force. It sucks. I should probably be in panic mode, especially given the fact that I did not get the job I just interviewed for on Wednesday, but I'm not. It is times like these where I think my laid-back, easy-going style does me a great disservice. Instead of frantically searching every school district site within a feasible distance of my current location I am looking at houses and condos that I could only afford if I won the lottery. Gee, I'm such a dreamer.

Everything will work out in the end right? Right? Oh shit.....

Update: So here I am, sitting on my couch at 8:26am without a job. STILL. It is the 22nd, and while some crazy shit could happen and a job could miraculously fall in my lap, I'm not holding my breath. Apparently sometime everything doesn't just work out in the end. Lesson learned universe, fuck you, but lesson learned.

Sometimes I Hate You More Than I Love You

2011-08-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are

2011-05-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

On why I've been in hiding, and why I decided to finally come out.

Life is funny sometimes. But not in the haha funny way; more like the 'I'm going to shit all over you' kind of way. So maybe it's not so funny after all. But my point is this: life is not quirky with some kind of meaningful message. It's not some romantic comedy where everyone is lonely and down until something crazy happens and BAM! Everything is peachy keen. It's not even like those romantic comedies that are all "oh life isn't like one of those romantic comedies," knowing damn well it is totally like one of those romantic comedies.

I've been slowly spiraling down, down, down. My binge eating is out of control. I even tried to take up smoking as a way to calm the nerves, and well, maybe kill the binge eating while I was at it. But that was one addiction that just wouldn't stick. I mean seriously!?! Who tries to get addicted to smoking and can't? I guess I can only have one addiction at a time. And food seems to be it.

I talk about food a lot don't I? Well if you think I talk about it a lot, you should try spending 10 minutes inside my head. It's a non-stop food reel in there. Food has literally been consuming my every waking moment for the past few months. If I'm not busy shoving food in my mouth then I am thinking about shoving food in my mouth. Well, that or sleeping.

How do you get rid of persistent unwanted thoughts anyway? In school we learned about a little thing called thought stopping. Only trouble is, I can't stop thinking about food long enough to tell myself to stop thinking about food. I have even dreamt about food on more than one occasion. It's absolutely frightening at this point. In less than two months I have probably gained almost 15 pounds. Yes, 15 pounds. And as alarmed as I am, I cannot seem to get food out of my head.

There's a tiny voice in there saying no to all that food I don't need, but my bigger, stronger, more junk food oriented voice speaks louder just about every damn time.

I really have no idea where I'm going with this, just had some thoughts in my head I wanted to get out.

358 Days Of Joy

2011-02-27T07:52:00.001-08:00

Got a bit behind there didn't I? No worries, I can post multiple days at once!! BooYAH!

No. 354: Snow

No. 353: When Starbuck wanders slowly away from the fireplace because she has gotten too warm and randomly flops.

No. 352: Beer

No. 351: Legendary Doughnuts

No. 350: PostSecret.com

358 Days Of Joy

2011-02-23T17:34:00.000-08:00

No. 355: My CTU hoodie

358 Days Of Joy

2011-02-22T09:03:00.000-08:00

No 356: Menchies

An October Wishlist

2011-02-22T08:53:00.001-08:00

Provided one of the remodeled 1st floor units is available, Darrick and I will be moving in October. And this of course means shopping! The kitchen is a tad smaller, and there is no pantry, so I get to think outside the box and get creative. Which I LOVE! We will also have a 2nd bathroom that will need outfitting. Naturally I've already been scouring my favorite websites looking for must have items. Here are a few that made my shopping list.

As you can see, mainly bathroom and kitchen items right now. But we will also be in the market for doors for our Expedit bookcase, pantry storage items, and rugs. Super excited!

358 Days Of Joy

2011-02-21T08:43:00.000-08:00

No. 357: Oatmeal and Black Tea

358 Days Of Joy

2011-02-20T07:32:00.001-08:00

It's the final year of a decade. And I should have started this on the 15th, but my time machine is currently on the lam, so I'll have to make do with 358 days rather than 365 days. The whole idea behind 358 Days of Joy is chronicling the things that make me happy during my 29th year. It doesn't have to be huge, because quite frankly it's all about the little things. Anywho, this will help me usher in a new decade, and my 30th year, in style.

No. 358: Bananas

October Can't Come Soon Enough!

2011-02-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

The hubs and I will be moving in October. It's not that we don't love where we live now, because we absolutely do. But we are so far from the bus line, and being that Darrick does not drive, he is almost literally unable to go anywhere. He wants to get a job outside of the house to make a bit more money, in addition to what he's doing now, so when our lease is up in October it's time to pack it up and ship it out.

After poring over countless websites (yeah, I totally hated that, note my sarcasm), we finally decided on a place that we were actually considering before we moved into our current place. Check out a few pictures of the place:

Of course, moving into a new place means shopping and decorating. And I CANNOT WAIT!!!

Too Much Of A Good Thing= Blech!

2011-01-04T18:41:00.000-08:00

The tile itself is GORGEOUS, but so much of it is overkill. A small accent wall of this in the bathroom sounds just about right to me.

Dilemma

2010-12-30T10:08:00.001-08:00

Starving Ethiopians have more willpower than me when it comes food. That's just sad. So I'm doing my research on natural appetite suppressants. Here's the rundown:

Water- 0 Calories

When that good old feeling of hunger strikes, drink 8 oz of water. Wait 10 minutes. Feelings of hunger should subside or decrease dramatically giving you a more accurate indication of whether or not you are actually hungry.

Organic Veggie or Chicken Broth- 20 Calories Tops

32, YES!!, 32 oz of organic broth. Heat and eat, just like soup. A lot of soup. Soup with nothing in it. More of a hot flavored water than anything else.

Green Leafy Veggies- 20 Calories Max

Lettuce, cabbage, bok choy. These bad boys will fill you up and give your brain a chance to receive the "I'm not hungry anymore" signal. Plus, you can eat all the greens in a grocery store and still not even crack the 100 calorie mark. *

Apples- No More Than 150 Calories

Find the largest apple you can. Sure there are some calories there, but it will take you a long time to eat, allowing those lovely signals to reach your brain and shut off the "stuff your face NOW!" switch. The fiber you're getting will keep that switch turned off longer too. It's also a sweet treat that can curb those sugar cravings.

And there it is. I'm not sure I could do the broth or leafy veggies options, just not my style. PLUS, it doesn't sound all that appetizing. But the water trick is worth trying, that is, IF I can actually remember to do the damn thing. I've always got apples in the fridge, so when that sugar attack commences I have a go-to defense plan. And I just love apples anyway.

*Ok, I exaggerate.

Why Won't You Ever Let Me Win?

2010-12-30T10:05:00.001-08:00

I play with you three times every week. And you never let me win! Why is that?

Oh right. You're a bastard.

Getting A Jump On My New Year's Resolution

2010-12-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

So I've take stock of where I am. I'll call this point zero. Oh yes my friends, it is that broken record you hear!

12.28.10
140
12.75
11.00 11.25
30.00 34.50
37.00 41.75
23.00 23.25

I am inspired by Jennifer Hudson's amazing transformation, so Weight Watchers here I come.... again.

Here's to the new year!

Movie Rundown: Best, Worst, and Renamed

2010-12-23T07:54:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that this Best and Worst of 2010 list is not likely to be accurate. Meaning, if I saw it in 2010 it might be on this list even if it was made in say.... 1975. So without further ado, here we go.

Best:
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Let The Right One In
Moon
Fargo
Shutter Island
Sherlock Holmes
The Hangover
Kick-Ass
11:14
And I'm gonna call it- Inception

Worst:
Alice in Wonderland
Twilight
TiMER
S. Darko: A Donnie Darko Tale
2012
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The Box
Knowing
The Book of Eli
Legion

And finally, I'd like to rename a couple of those worsts I saw this year. Enjoy!

Legion: God Is Fickle
Twilight: I Can Never Get Those Two Hours Back
Knowing: Wish I Known How Bad This Movie Was Going To Be BEFORE I Watched It
TiMER: Even Though I Know You're Not The One, I'll Still Let You Fall For Me So I Can Fuck Up Your World, AKA I'm A Crazy Bitch

My 2010 Faves

2010-12-21T11:30:00.000-08:00

In no particular order:

WoW

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Darrick (with or without bandages)

Starbuck

Riding a Mechanical Bull (and losing/keeping off 15lbs!)

Tikka Masala

Sephora Vanilla Cake Products and Makeup

Uggs Black Short Boots (one day they will be mine, mwahahaha!)

Victoria's Secret Incredible Bra

A Homemade Christmas

2010-12-21T08:38:00.001-08:00

So we are very limited on what we can put up. Our cat is crazy (we still love her though), and tore apart the tree like a crazy person last year. So this year I decided to do something different. I like the way it turned out, it's pretty cozy. And so, without further ado..... A Mattsen Christmas.

Still have to finish my snowflake curtain and hang balls from the ceiling fan, so there will be a few more updated pics soon.

I've Created A Monster!

2010-12-20T08:32:00.000-08:00

A beauty monster that is. Think Halle Berry's rack

Marisa Miller's booty

Salma Hayek's waist

and Whitney Port's legs.

Yummy!

Dawg Dash

2010-10-25T06:06:00.001-07:00

Ran in the Dawg Dash on Sunday, and since I actually paid to run in this 5k, I knocked number 26 off of my 30 Before Thirty list!

6 down, 24 to go. I better get a move on!!

30 Before Thirty

2010-10-09T19:44:00.001-07:00

Another one bites the dust. Specifically 15.

No Intro Needed

2010-10-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

I Guess I'm Just A Fuck-Up

2010-10-07T05:58:00.000-07:00

How many redo's does a person need before they get it?

Apparently one million, six hundred forty three thousand, twenty one. *sigh*

Grrr...

2010-10-04T18:49:00.001-07:00

My angry face is in full force.

I don't have a wife or kids, BUT IF I DID......

I do not condone domestic violence. Please don't hate me. It's the wine talking.

I Could Really Use A Wish Right Now

2010-10-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday started out fantastically. I kept the calories on point through lunch, kept myself nice and busy cleaning and watching SVU. But I've discovered that dinner is another trouble spot. I just overeat.

So absolved: I will wait at least 15 minutes before going back for seconds.
Absolved: I will start off with a portion size that is 75% of what I'd normally get for dinner.
Further absolved: I will stay out of that damn staff room.

On the old plate for the day:
1/2 Cup Oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb Light Brown Sugar: 45 calories
1Tsp Sugar Free Syrup: 5 calories
Quaker Chewy Granola Bar: 100 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Small Apple: 70 calories
Light String Cheese: 60 calories
Total For Breakfast and Lunch: 530 calories
4oz Pinot Grigio: 95 calories
Dinner: 575 calories

I had planned on doing yoga this morning, but it is now 6:20am and I've missed that window.

Carry on.

Action Jackson

2010-10-02T17:02:00.001-07:00

I have endless plans don't I? My life is made up of plans. Plans that happen. Plans that don't. Plans that rock. Plans that turn out to be a trip to Hell's toilet. But what can I say? I'm a planner.

Breakfast: I have to stop with the instant oatmeal. I know it's high fiber, but it's not doing what I want it to. Which is help me feel full so I avoid that damn staff room and all of it's sweet, deliciousness that wants me to be fat. Why must there always be cupcakes. WHY is there are always salty chips? Ugh! Anyway, back to breakfast. I have to get back to making the oatmeal, measuring out some brown sugar, and putting in a tsp of sugar free syrup. That works. It's not the most glamorous thing, but it works. 205 calories

Lunch: Should there be a snack in there? No. I just decided that. I have lots of tea. And as long as I keep myself busy working and/or visiting classrooms that should help me avoid the most evil room in the building. I like string cheese. It's tasty. And an apple sliced up in yogurt is a can't miss. But I need something else to add to the mix. And I can't figure out what that is. I'll try some edamame on Monday and see how that goes down. Otherwise, maybe some granola or nuts to mix in with the apple/yogurt? 290 calories. Oh, and I should probably lay off the salt. It's like crack. And crack is wack.

See? Exactly the same.

Dinner: Gotta cut out the carbs. They are killing me. Once I get some in my mouth it's like a cravefest for chocolate, sweets, and other carby goodness. I should probably just stick with meat and veggies. You can't go wrong with meat and veggies. But I do need to stay away from my homemade peanut sauce. That stuff is yum, but goes right to the bum. Hey-O! 600 calories.

Snack/Wine: Whichever I'm in the mood for. No more than 95 calories (because that's about how much is in a glass of the good stuff).

Total for the day: 1200 calories give or take a few.

Oh plans. Will I just let you down again? Not if Action Jackson has anything to say about it!

HUZZAH!!

No Soup For You!

2010-10-02T16:49:00.001-07:00

Ok, so maybe just no computer. I have to have some kind of consequence for not sticking to my healthy eating plan, and the scale and measurements just aren't cutting it. So I will not allow myself computer time if I cheat. Now who to enforce this madness? Starbuck..... are you busy?

Plans, plans, and more plans! I love to plan, but I hate when it doesn't work out. And this is really important to me.... at least I think it is..... yes, yes it is. I distinctly remember saying to Darrick that I was starting to actually feel good about myself. I know that it's sad, and quite frankly, a little pathetic that so much of my own self value comes from my appearance. But it just does. And deep down I don't know that I really think that's such a bad thing. I could make some kind of social commentary right now about how fucked up it is that outer beauty and appearance is such a big deal, but I actually don't really care about that right now. I want to look hot. I want to look sexy. And not to someone else. To me. To ME. When I look in the mirror I look dumpy, doughy, and gross. And I HATE it. It makes me want to cry.

And I just feel so pissed off at myself. Just because that voice in my head that wants me to eat right and not overeat sounds an awful lot like that bitch Navi is not an excuse to ignore it.

I'm disgusted by where I am right. I have taken 2 enormous steps back, and I'm pissed at myself. Don't try to comfort me, that's not what I need. I'm chubby. Tell me I'm chubby. Because I am. 5'4" and inching back over 140lbs is NOT cute. It's chubby. And it's gross. And I hate it.

So Khole, we may not be spending as much time together. And it's not because I don't love you. Believe me, I love you. It's just that at this point I am at my wit's end and I need to get my head out of my ass and back on my neck where it belongs. Now excuse me while I head off to Menchies for some fro-yo.

Fuck you. I'll eat better tomorrow.

I Be Working On My Fitness

2010-10-02T08:28:00.001-07:00

But forget that eating better shit..... I'm struggling with that big time! I'm seriously starting to sound like a damn broken record! But fear not solo follower, it has to happen someday right? RIGHT? Awww hell!

Yesterday at work we had our first annual Walk-A-Thon. It was a huge success. Tons of parents showed up to help out, AND I walked for the entire 2 hour event! Go me! I ran quite a bit of it too, around 2/3 to 75% of the time. When all was said and done I had done about
7.25 miles! I'm pretty impressed with myself. PLUS I scored five sweet jelly bracelets (you got a bracelet after completing 10 laps, so YOU do the math! Alright, I'll help you out: on paper I ended up with 50 laps, but in reality I had already done two or three before I decided to track down an extra race bib/tracking sheet.).

My body is definitely feeling all my hard work from yesterday today. I think at some point I'll groan and moan my way off the couch, clean house, and do a bit of yoga to loosen up these sore muscles.

But I digress. Nothing says Saturday like cold pizza for breakfast. It's going to be a great day.

Shout out to Kev who is an hombre viejo hoy. Feliz cumpleanos amigo!

Getcha Getcha Getcha Getcha Getcha Run On

2010-09-30T05:18:00.000-07:00

Must avoid staff room goodies. That is my goal for today. Going for a run today after work, going to try for 2.25 miles straight today. That first 5k will be here in less than a month so I need to get busy.

Planned Intake For The Day:
2 Packets High Fiber Oatmeal: 320 calories
Banana: 94 calories
Light String Cheese: 60 calories
Luna Bar: 180 calories
Wedge Salad With Cucumber, Tomato, Gorgonzola, Bacon, and Ranch: 325 calories
Sugar Free Jello Pudding: 60 calories
Total: 1039 calories

Say It Ain't So

2010-09-27T05:20:00.000-07:00

Aye yiyi! Here goes:

My weigh-in and stats on day one, April 25th, 2010

Weight- 145lbs
Measurements:
Neck-13"
Upper Arms- 11.25"
Bust- 36"
Waist: 30.5"
Stomach- 36"
Hips/Butt- 43"
Thighs- 24"
Shins- 14"
Calves- 8.25"

My weigh-in and stats pre-Sacramento, June 21st, 2010

Weight- 134- 133lbs (-11- 12lbs)
Measurements:
Neck- 12.5" (-.5")
Upper Arms- 10.75" (-.5")
Bust- 32" (-4")
Waist- 28.5" (-1.75")
Stomach- 32.5" (-3.5")
Hips/Butt- 41" (-2")
Thighs- 22.5" (-1.5")
Shins- 12.75" (-1.25")
Calves- 7.75" (-.5")
Total Inches Lost- 15.5"

My weigh-in and stats today *cringe*

Weight- 138lbs (+4- 5lbs)
Measurements:
Neck-12.5" (+/- 0")
Upper Arms- 11" (+.25")
Bust- 32.5" (+.5")
Waist- 30" (+1.5"!!!!!!)
Stomach- 36" (HOLY SHIT!! +3.5")
Hips/Butt- 42" (+1")
Thighs- 23.25" (+1")
Shins- 13.25 (+.5")
Calves- not taken because I don't use if for anything
Total Inches Gained- 8.25!!!!

Ok, I am officially grossed out! My hips, butt, stomach, and waist are all almost back to where they originally were. How did I let it get this far! All that hard work undone. *sigh* Hopefully this is the reality check that will get me back on track for good this time.

Goal Weight/Measurements:
Weight: 123lbs (-15lbs)
Upper Arms- 10" (-1")
Bust- 32- 36" (Hey, something I don't really have to change! Kinda nice!)
Waist- 28- 27": (-2- 3")
Stomach- 30" (-6": aside from weight, this is where I need to do the most work.)
Hips/Butt- 40" (-2")
Thighs- 18- 20" (-3.25- 5.25")
Total Inches To Lose: 14.25- 17.25"

I've got my work cut out for me for sure!

Planned Intake For Today:
1/2 Cup Oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb Light Brown Sugar: 45 calories
1tsp Sugar Free Syrup: 11 calories
Small Apple: 74 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Light String Cheese: 60 calories
Chips and Salsa con Queso: 220 calories
6oz Pinot Grigio: 144 calories
3oz Hormel Extra Lean Teriyaki Pork: 9 calories
Broccoli Steamer: 38 calories
Sugar Cookies: 223 calories
Total: 1162 calories

Workout: Yoga Meltdown Level 1

When all else fails, fear is as good a motivator as any.

If I Say It Enough Will It Come True?

2010-09-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

I'm not exactly sure how I was able to get on track back in April, but damn do I wish I could get back to that place again. I know what I did, I'm just not sure how I got my mind right. And it really is about getting your mind right.

So what exactly does get your mind right anyway? I already feel disgusted when I look in the mirror, especially when naked, so that's not the magic bullet. I've had those "holy shit I look seriously fat in this!" moments so that's not it either. I've got upcoming events that I want to look faboosh for and yet still I find myself not sticking to the plan I set for myself at the outset of each and every single fucking day. So what do I need to do? I'm getting to end of my rope, but I refuse to just say "fuck it" and give up. And yet still the motivation does not come.

I've pored over those entries. Looking for something. I'm pretty sure I felt numb at that time and was just going through the motions. But I don't want to feel that way again. Can one be happily numb? Is that even a real feeling?

An idea just came to me out of nowhere. Like seriously, it popped in my head just this second. And it will likely be embarrassing, but perhaps it is what I need. Tomorrow I will post my starting stats from back in April. Then I will post my stats from when I got down to 132lbs. And then I will post where I am at now. Maybe looking at the damage I've done since going to Sacramento and how I'm inching back to the beginning will jump start my ass. Finally I will post what my goals are. I'm all in. I won't put it off another day. I WILL GET TO 123LBS!!

That is all.

Put It On Replay

2010-09-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

Fighting Through

2010-09-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

Still feeling a bit sore today, and have a gnarly cold/allergies thing going, but I'm going to get my yoga on anyway. I left my running shoes at work, but luckily this yoga workout it pretty hardcore so I'll get a good workout without hitting the trail.

What's On My Plate:
2.5 servings of Juanitas: 325 calories
String Cheese: 60 calories
Wedge Salad (a la last night): 175 calories
Meatball Sub: 490 calories
Sugar Free Jello Pudding: 60 calories
Total: 1110 calories

My Newest Color Combo Obsession

2010-09-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

Right now I am really feeling dark gray, blue gray, and bright yellow in a master bedroom. One day my bedroom will include some, all, and maybe none of these kick ass items.

Fabulous wall color: Zinc

The Templeton Queen Bed in Vice Charcoal with Black Base

A beautiful quilt for the end of the bed and snuggling on cold winter nights.

Wallpapered wall directly behind bed.

Art on free wall on theleft side of the bed.

Here's where that yellow comes into play (along with my painting which will have bright pops of yellow as well). Dried craspedia in a beeker vase on the dresser.

Other items to complete this room:

Soreness and Humble Beginnings

2010-09-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

I feel it EVERYWHERE! That dvd is awesomesauce, and hopefully I will be able to do it again today. If my body just won't cooperate, then tomorrow.

So today I'm calling it- Day 1: Humble Beginnings
I have been struggling to get back on track (shocking I know!), but I'm seriously serious this time (I mean it, I swear!). We'll see how this goes. I've already eaten breakfast today, and I like to weigh-in and take measurements first thing in the morning, so those will come tomorrow.

Intake For Today:
Quaker High Fiber Oatmeal: 320 calories
2 Pieces Bread: 140 calories
2 Eggs: 140 calories
Cream Cheese: 30 calories
String Cheese: 60 calories
Split Pea and Ham Soup: 300 calories
Wedge Salad With Tomato, Cucumber, Gorgonzola, and Ranch: 175 calories
Total: 1165 calories

Day 1: Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown

2010-09-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

I have never sweated this much doing yoga in my life! Good stuff. I am starting on level 1 which is pretty challenging. I can do most of the moves, but some I had to modify because I wasn't quite ready yet. I'm feeling great at the moment even though I let that damn Honey Nut Cheerios get me again! Ugh! At least there is none left so I won't have to worry about that anymore.

On My Plate Today:
4 servings Honey Nut Cheerios: 300 calories
2 slices homemade pepperoni pizza with reduced fat feta, jalapenos, and roma tomatoes: 300 calories
1/5 Chicken and Stove Top casserole: 480 calories
4 oz Savignon Blanc: 90 calories
Sugar free Jello pudding: 60 calories
Total: 1230 calories

Real Housewives of D.C. and Gay Marriage

2010-09-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness. Don't even get me started.

How are you going to sit there and say it's not relevant to me because I'm not gay, it doesn't have an impact on me, and I'm not passionate about it, and then in the next breath say BUT marriage should be between a man and a woman only. What the fuck! If it doesn't have any relevancy for you or impact your life then why are you fighting against it? And ummm.... HELLO!! See your gay friend sitting right there? Yeah, that's why it should impact your life because someone you call a friend does not have the the rights as everyone else. DUH!

Grrr!!! There's just so much running through my mind right now and I'm sure at some point I can actually sit down and get it out in a manner that makes sense, but I just needed to vent that right quick.

The main culprits:

Shame on ya'll.

Who I Am

2010-09-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Why?

2010-09-23T05:53:00.001-07:00

Damn you Honey Nut Cheerios! Why must you be the definition of deliciousness brought to life?

I have eaten just over half of my calories for the day already! Cereal: You are the bane of my existence!

Since I have no after school meetings I will get in a run before open house. That should help a little bit.

On My Plate Today:
Tea, tea, tea!!!: 0 calories
1/2 cup 1% milk: 55 calories
4 cups (I KNOW!!) Honey Nut Cheerios: 585 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Small apple: 70 calories
Light string cheese: 60 calories
Small serving of Stove Top and chicken casserole: 400 calories
Sugar free Jello pudding: 60 calories
Total: 1330 calories

Not horrible, but not where I want to be. Also, I will seriously need to activate my self-control powers. Strategy: Avoid staff room, eat slowly, and drink lots of tea/water.

A Look Back

2010-09-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

Why was I able to lose weight back in April/May? Well because I was eating between 1000 and 1200 calories. But how specifically was I able to manage that? After checking out my posts from April and May it looks like my intake was around 450 pre-dinner. That left me with between 550 and 750 calories for dinner/wiggle room.

From May 8, 2008 entry:

Final Intake For Today:
1/2 cup oatmeal: 150 calories
1 Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories
Tea, tea, tea!!!: 0 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Small apple: 75 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
Beef stew: 375 calories (estimated)
Dinner roll: 110 calories
Glass of red wine: 90 calories
3 chocolate covered strawberries: 125 calories (estimated)
Total: 1150 calories

I was also cutting out much of my nighttime carb consumption by ditching the rice, really controlling my pasta portions for dishes like fettuccine alfredo and spaghetti, and not eating carby side dishes like mac n' cheese or potatoes.

So with the difficulty I have been having lately getting back on track, I now know exactly what I need to do. I'm so glad that I was really keeping track during that period because now I can return to those habits and get back down to 132lbs and continue on down to my final goal of 123lbs. I'm no entirely sure how my body will respond considering I am getting back into running, but time will tell.

I'm feeling optimistic and excited about getting down to business and back on track.

It's All About The Details

2010-09-22T05:34:00.001-07:00

I love good decorating. But more than that, I love the small details that just make the room. Check out some amazing small detail attention that just turns a room from great to F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S!

Paint It Black- I've grown to really love a black painted exterior. It's not too dark, it's just bold and modern.

A Clever Use of River Rocks-

Dressing Up An Otherwise Monotone or Clean and Streamlined Room With Unexpected Lighting

Bold Wall and Ceiling Treatments- This was the first image in which I saw the use of a siding-like wall treatment indoors and it was love at first sight.

Fun Textiles- How can you not love these fun black skull pillows?

Playful Accessories and Art-A clever zoo scene? Giant jack? Favorite album covers turned art? A beeker used as a vase? Sure, why not!

No Start Is Perfect Right?

2010-09-22T05:24:00.001-07:00

So the calories were not exactly as they were stated yesterday. There may have been tots and ranch instead of a baked potato. And there may have been and ice cream cone instead of sugar free jello. AND there most definitely may have been a couple fun size candies at work. *le sigh*

BUT on the bright side I did run yesterday. I started with a mile warm-up, then ran for 1.25 miles. A .25ish cooldown and my total was 2.5 miles. Not too shabby I say considering it has been over 6 months since the last time I even thought of running much less actual running! I'm going to be doing The Dawg Dash and Freaky 5k next month, and the good old Turkey Trot I did last year in November. I'll likely do the Jingle Bell Dash in December. Good times, good times.

Intake For Today:
3/4 cup Honey Nut Cheerios: 110 calories
High fiber cinnamon swirl oatmeal: 160 calories
Small apple: 70 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Fiber Plus bar: 120 calories
1/4 cup edamame: 60 calories
Dinner: 540 calories (have NO clue what we will be having, but mmmm..... chicken and Stovetop casserole sure does sound yum)

To run or not to run today, that is the question. I will likely NOT run today. I don't want to start out too gung-ho and then lose it and sputter quickly. Plus we need to hit up Best Buy to get Darrick a new computer chair.

Happy Hump Day!!

Back To Tracking

2010-09-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

I need to, so I'm doing it. I've gotten so far off track it is ridiculous. So back to tracking I go. I refuse to take measurements and hop on the scale for the first week, so next Tuesday I'll do an official weigh-in.

I am going to start training for 5k's today, so fingers crossed I don't die out there. It has been over 6 months since I last even attempted to run/jog. Yikes! Wondering why I am training for 5k's? Well aside from the fact that it is number 30 on my list, I will be running a 5k a month with my buddy Briana. We're actually doing two next month because there isn't a suitable one for this month. I know, very ambitious, and I am actually kinda rethinking that first one because I don't think I will be ready. We'll see how today's run goes.

Calories For Today:
3/4 cup Honey Nut Cheerios: 110 calories
1 packet high fiber cinnamon swirl oatmeal: 160calories
Small apple: 70 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Fiber bar: 120 calories
Jumbo Ballpark hotdog on a bun with ketchup: 360 calories
Baked potato with 1/4 cup cheese and Tapitio: 200 calories (estimated)
Sugar free Jello: 60 calories
Total: 1180 calories

Lovely Wallpaper

2010-09-20T06:20:00.001-07:00

Could Her Head Get Any Bigger?

2010-09-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Dressing like a freak and loving gays does not make you the best qualified person to lead the march for gay rights. Just saying.

I mean seriously. Do you really think you will be taken seriously with this representing you? Didn't think so. And before you jump all over my shit, I love gay people and believe in equal rights for gays with all my heart. I just un-heart her uber pretentiousness.

Grrr....

2010-09-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

For some reason when I see this it totally bugs the crap out of me.

You might be asking yourself exactly what it is you are supposed to be looking at? Well, that there plant that's located in the corner to the right of the sink? It just magically appears to the left of the sink in the second picture. Think I'm overreacting? That I'm being overly sensitive and ridiculous? This next one is done so blatantly it is offensive!

And no, the changes were not made in some attempt to discover the best placement of furniture! This really grinds my goat! *is that a real saying or did I just make that up? shrugs*

Adventures In Withdrawals

2010-09-14T05:20:00.000-07:00

The time has come, I no longer am in need of my Effexor. I am ready to wean myself off. Not so fast there turbo! Did you know that the withdrawals symptoms when coming off off Effexor are a horrible, horrible experience? Well if you didn't know, then now you know.

Headache, nausea, fatigue, confusion, difficulty concentrating, tingling in the hands, a weird "zzt zzt zzt" sound when I move my eyes too quickly to the side, dizziness, lightheadedness. Not fun.

Today will be my second day home from work. I was starting to feel pretty good yesterday, so I'm not sure what the fuck is going on today. I think I experienced my first real brain shiver. Not a lovely experience at all to say the least. *sigh* Let's see what the ol' doc has to say today. I know that there are some people who just can never get off of it. I will not be one of those people. But it may be the case that I just need to get back on it and then attempt to get off during winter vacation. Two weeks where I can feel like ish and then get on with it.

But we'll see what the doc says.

Origami Is Cool

2010-09-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

I Really Love Joseph Gordon-Levitt

2010-09-09T17:54:00.000-07:00

Awesomeness.

Why Not Us?

2010-09-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

I really wish the staff lounge at my work looked like this. *sigh*

Numbers Crunching

2010-09-01T06:11:00.000-07:00

So, goal setting. I'm ok at it. But I've never really been that great at it. In terms of my ideal weight and body shape it has been pretty arbitrary.

"Oh let's see. 125lbs sounds good. Yea, let's go with that."

Well I have finally done some research to figure out what my ideal weight and body shape should be. I want to have a waist to hip ratio of .7 (this is apparently the number that men find most attractive, and well, it makes me feel kind of sexy when guys find me attractive. Don't judge me damn you! You know you all secretly feel the same way! Having whatever gender you are attracted to thinking you are sexy is quite the confidence booster). Apparently with a waist of 29.5 and hips of 41 my ratio is already .72. Not too bad if I do say so myself. But I'd like to lower those number to 28 and 40. Also a ratio of .7, but a slightly smaller ratio. I'm not too far from this, so I know I can realistically make this happen.

Next I took a look at my body fat percentage. Yikes! 32.5! According to that number I am obese. Well obese in terms of fat percentage anyway. Which means I'm skinny-fat, without being skinny. So I'm like average-fat I guess. I want to get my body fat percentage into the fitness range which is 21- 24% I think 22% has a nice ring to it. Using their crafty little formula, I've concluded that my ideal weight is thus approximately 123lbs. That will take a bit of work as I've gone up a few pounds over the summer. Ok, 5lbs. There, I said it. So I'm tipping the scale at 137lbs, which means I need to lose 14lbs to get to my ideal weight and body fat percentage.

My BMI is already fine at 23.5, and at 123lbs it will be 21.11. So even though my BMI is currently fine, like I said before, I'm average-fat. So I won't really look at my BMI again as I work towards my goal. I know that I'll be healthy, so I won't be using that as a marker of success.

Now on to the part that matters for achieving those goals: BMR. I like to start out at what my BMR would be at my ideal weight. Basically my BMR calculates how many calories I'd burn at my given weight if I just stayed in bed all day. SO at 123lbs my BMR would be 1359.25. If I were to consume that many calories in a day and never get out of bed I would maintain a weight of 123lbs. Now, I don't just stay in bed all day, so that right there is a positive. Throw in my goal intake of 1200 calories/day, and I should hopefully be burning about 500+ calories a day, which means 1lb a week weight loss. I'm not too keen on working out at the moment, but I get a lot of activity in at work, so I think it all balances out in the end. I'm shooting to lose 1- 1.5lbs/week, so I should reach my goal in 14 weeks or less. That's about 2.5 months. Maybe I can wow the fam with my new body at Thanksgiving. ;)

Want to check out the calculators I used so you can come up with your own plan? Visit this site.

Cheers!

My Lovely Lady Humps

2010-08-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

In the back and in the front.

Today's planned intake:
1.5 cups Corn Pops: 180 calories
2/3 cups milk: 73 calories
Small apple: 60 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
1/4 cup edamame: 60 calories
Peanut broccoli: 300 calories
Soy chicken sandwich: 335 calories
Total: 1108 calories

Some Like It Square

2010-08-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Especially me!!! Boxy houses, boxy windows, boxy displays, boxy boxy boxy!

ZGallerie: A Short Wishlist

2010-08-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have known about ZGallerie for a while, but for some reason I never really checked out their merchandise too closely. Took some time to do so yesterday and goodness gracious! Tons of things I would love to own. Let's start in the living room shall we:

A lovely trunk coffee table. Divine!

The notorious anal bead lamp!

A fun floor lamp that I think would look awesome next to an enormous sectional.

A living room just isn't complete without art and accessories.

Moving right along. A quick stop in the dining room before heading into the bedroom and bathroom.

Super cool and industrial feel to this table runner.

Some dried white dandelion (seeds removed).

And a glam mirror for applying makeup. Hey! I do it once or twice a year!

Check out all these and more at ZGallerie.

Try Try Again

2010-08-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

There's no reason to not try again when things go awry. So here goes.

Today's Intake:
Cinnamon raisin english muffin: 150 calories
1/2 serving Pizza Hut chicken alfredo pasta: 315 calories
5oz chicken breast: 155 calories
2Tb pesto sauce: 230 calories
1/6 cup mozzarella cheese: 36 calories
Roasted potatoes: 200 calories
Extra virgin olive oil: 60 calories
Ice cream sandwich: 160 calories
Total: 1306 calories

Not too shabby. I've been struggling with that extra weight I picked up in Sacramento. I just haven't been able to get myself back on track. But I'm feeling pretty good about getting things going again. I'm very optimistic. :)

No Title Would Be Suitable Enough For This Beauty

2010-08-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

I just found the condo of my dreams, and guess what? I will never get it. Ever.

If I hadn't spent hours marveling at it's beauty; if I hadn't taken the tour and realized it had everything I wanted; if I didn't take pics with my phone and longingly stare at them for hours on end. I'll never have it. And I know that. But still, I feel sad.

I love the hubs. I really do. But I wish he would do something more. Anything really. He's very intelligent, and he has a degree. It's not like he's some schlub. It is very stressful to pretty much be the only one making money. He makes enough to pay his student loans and credit card bills (and sometimes not enough for that) and that's it. Our bills every month are right around $2550. I put $150 into savings every month, and usually take it right back out. Then you have to think about groceries. And the hubs LOVES to grocery shop. And maybe I indulge him a bit when it comes to that.

*GASP* Am I an enabler?? Holy shit! When did this happen!?!

Figure in gas, prescriptions and/or doctor visits, clock hours for work, and other random work related shit and we're spent. I don't like living paycheck to paycheck. I work damn hard! And I want to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Alas. No such luck.

The hubs makes around $7000 per year. YES! $7000! That's it! I kid you not when I say he makes enough to pay his student loans and credit card bills and that's it. I am not exaggerating in the least.

And so I'm stressed out. And it doesn't help when I find a fucking gorgeous, amazing, literally PERFECT ass condo that I would fuck a homeless woman with no teeth and only three fingers on her left hand to own. Let me wax poetic for a moment. Picture style if you will.

*Shaking fist at screen* Damn you small pictures!!! You do my love no justice!

Now you may be thinking to yourself: "Self, this condo looks rather.... well.... ordinary." But you would be wrong! Such a fatal error you have made. My heart weeps for you.

This gorgeous marvel is over 1600sqft. Dark hardwood floors throughout. Beautiful dark wood doors. Double door entry into the master suite that has dual vanities, a large walk-in closet, a spacious layout, AND balcony access. The balcony is quite large, faces a quiet street, and gets lots of sunlight. A fully updated kitchen with new, matching black appliances, dark cherry cabinets with modern knobs, tile floors, a good sized pantry, and an island which may or may not be staying (I am inclined to think it will be staying). The opening in the wall that looks from the kitchen into the open living/dining area was widened to allow for flow and entertaining. There is also a beautiful gas fireplace in the living room. The second bedroom is large, and there is plenty of storage: large closet in second bedroom, deep linen closet, and a large laundry room featuring newer full size washer and dryer and plenty of room to store additional pantry items, a bike, hell! You could even put in a lounge chair to chill in while doing laundry! And on top of all that, the entry is very secure. You need to be buzzed into the building for entry. There is even an elevator! North end Tacoma, close to bars and fun downtown stuff.

Le swoon. Oh condo. Why must you torment me so? I love you... isn't that enough?

But I digress. I just wish the hubs made even $500 more a month. We might be able to swing it. Maybe. But as it stands right now, our debt to income ratio is in the pooper.

A quick side note: Did you know that there are people who actually freeze their poop and then use it as a dildo?? I know right? RIDICULOUS! It's called turtling. The things you can learn from Urban Dictionary.

I tried to find a picture for your enjoyment, but couldn't find one. I know, you're crying right now. It'll be okay. I promise.

So here I sit, on a Saturday morning, thinking about what I should eat for breakfast and feeling a longing for something that I've never known but have glimpsed.

Wow.... That's Tough Pill To Swallow

2010-08-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

I was just reading the blog of someone else and I realized I am incredibly boring. Maybe. Or maybe I just don't know how to get what is in my head out in a way that is interesting. Nah. I'm probably just boring. Sadness.

Discoco

2010-08-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

It wants me. I know because I speak lamp.

Via Marset.

I Guess It Wasn't Love Afterall

2010-08-05T12:42:00.001-07:00

When I first laid eyes on this place I was all giggly wide-eyed school girl.

But then I got past the amazing entrance and well, yeah. Just wasn't working for me.

Sadness. See more at Contemporist.

What Say You?

2010-08-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

While laying in bed this morning trying to fall back asleep I started to think about what I would like my future dream house to look like (shocking, I know!). And I got to thinking about how I would renovate a home to make it perfect. Perhaps that kitchen in need of updating wouldn't be so bad. Some paint, a new countertop and backsplash, some killer lighting, stainless steel appliances and tiled or poured concrete floors would be pretty sweet.

So this begs the question: Black, high gloss kitchens- Sleek and fabulous or dark and disastrous?

Holy Deliciousness Batman!

2010-08-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

Ahhh.... Midcentury Modern. How I doth love thee. I am a total modern girl, but there's just something about that 50's to 70's design flare that does something to me. From the houses

to the furniture, lighting, and accessories,

the Midcentury Modern design style is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. It's really big in the design world right now, which is irritating to no end, but it will still have the fondest place in my heart when trendy noobs are no longer interested.

The Plan

2010-08-03T09:27:00.001-07:00

My second anniversary is coming up in less than six months. I'm obsessed with planning things, especially upcoming events like anniversaries and vacations. I've been doing quite a bit of research on how to make this a special celebration, and I think I have finally come up with a plan that is both romantic and affordable.

Number 11 on my 30 Before Thirty is wine tasting and touring Chateau Ste. Michelle, and I think that this would be a great anniversary activity. So here's the rundown:

We will be staying in a studio balcony suite in Hotel Sierra Redmond

How modern and chic right? We'll then either take a cab, or if we're feeling extra fancy a Lincoln Towncar, to wine country. I want to tour two different wineries:

Chateau Ste. Michelle

and Silver Lake Winery

After getting a nice little buzz, it will be time for a nice, juicy steak dinner at Canyons. More wine consumed of course. And to top off the evening, a steamy bubble bath with chocolate covered strawberries and a bottle of wine purchased at one of the wineries.

We'll sleep in, enjoy some breakfast, and then head back home, maybe stopping at Ikea on the way back ;). This option is totally affordable with a price right around $300.

Ahhh.... So Many Bubbles

2010-08-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

Last night I enjoyed a relaxing, hot bubble bath. Candles and the Beatles. Who wouldn't love that? And speaking of the Beatles:

The History of the Beatles

Grats!

2010-08-01T08:43:00.001-07:00

As seen in the 1995 episode "Lisa's Wedding."

Well I AM A Girl Afterall

2010-07-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

Those who know me know that I am not the most girly girl around. I prefer to dress casually in a pair of jeans or sweats and a t-shirt. I rarely wear makeup. My hair has been in the same bun since I was in high school (that's more than 10 years folks!). No one would ever accuse me of being particularly fashionable. However, when I stumbled across this website, I found that Hey! I do happen to have some girly tastes after all. Who woulda thunk it?

Images via Charlotte Russe.

Five Things: Restoration Hardware

2010-07-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

Restoration Hardware is an awesome store. They have great items, although very much on the pricey end. If money were no object, five things:

Although from the picture this is clearly a bathroom item, I would use it as a drinks cart that would allow for guest to enjoy libations from any room (perhaps whilst outdoors lounging in the item below ).

My ideas for my outdoor space are constantly evolving. Sometimes I want a very breezy area reminiscent of lounging poolside in a tropical location, and at other times I simply want two Adirondack chairs with footstools and a nice little table between for enjoying a meal outdoors on a beautiful summer evening. At any rate, I absolutely love this wicker lounger. How cozy does that look? A nice cocktail and a good book while working on my tan. Heavenly.

It is no secret that I love candles. They set the mood. And good ambiance is all you really need to set the right mood for any occasion. Candles that require no lighters? And if my kitty got too close she wouldn't burn off her whiskers? Yes please! Whether taking a nice and relaxing whirlpool bath, enjoying a glass of wine with the hubby on the balcony while watching the sunset, or setting the mood in the bedroom these are a must have item.

I really do want a platform bed in my master bedroom, but I've really fallen in love with the idea of having a tall, tufted headboard. No other explanation necessary ;).

These jars are just downright sexy. The largest of the set is 5 1/4" diameter X 10"H, and the second largest is 4" diameter X 8"H. Both would be large enough to hold liquor, however their "nearly airtight" toppers are a tad concerning. Alcohol can go 'bad' if not properly stored in an airtight container in a a cool and dry place. But how swank would these look in that dining room bar setup I have listed as 15 on my 30 before Thirty list? Amazing!
These buggers would also make great flour/sugar/cornstarch/rice/pasta/seasonings/etc containers. Although I would prefer those in clear glass.

Images via Restoration Hardware.

One Can Dream: Hollywood Glam

2010-07-28T13:03:00.001-07:00

Mood board for a hollywood glam guest bedroom and bathroom. Click image to enlarge. Enjoy!

Farmers, Fights, and Food

2010-07-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Did some grocery shopping with the hubs today. We had no idea there was a farmer's market in our area so we went and checked it out today. Yikes! Pretty expensive stuff there! But we did hit up HMart, which is an awesome place that I love. Fuji apples, edamame, and a 50lb bag of rice. Good deal.

Had a pretty big blowout with my mom on the phone today. *sigh* That woman just grates on me sometimes. Not ready to put it into words yet, but the words will come.

Today was a great day food wise. I made some delicious greek chicken pitas. Mmm mmm mmm! Tsatsiki, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and yummy wheat pitas. So good! I really should have taken pics, but I will def be making that recipe again.

Today's Intake:
1/2 cup oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
Strawberry banana smoothie: 110 calories
5 oz cubed, grilled chicken: 175 calories
Tsatsiki: 50 calories
Cherry tomatoes: 10 calories
Lettuce: 5 calories
2 whole wheat pitas: 320 calories
6 oz pinot grigio: 140 calories
Skinny cow chocolate fudge brownie cup: 150 calories
Total: 1235 calories

Low GI Woes

2010-07-21T10:44:00.000-07:00

I admit it. I have a serious addiction to cereal. So what did I do this morning? Eat all the cereal that would tempt me. I had two large bowls, one of Golden Grahams and one of Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, making it so that there are no longer any tempting boxes of delicious open cereals to taunt me. *sigh* I guess that's one way to remove obstacles!

The caloric intake of those bowls was probably around 400 calories each, and both were a high GI level. Fortunately I had fat-free milk. That kinda balances things out in the GI world, but I still feel no less shitty about it anyway. I'm not sure if I'll be hungry around 12- 1:00pm, but if I am I plan on having a piece of toast with an egg on it. That's about 180 calories, with the toast being Intermediate and the egg being Low.

Dinner will be a veggie burger on wheat and some steamed veggies. All told, dinner will be mostly low GI, with Intermediate for both the wheat bread and the ketchup. Calorie-wise I will likely end up around 1500. Not exactly where I'd like to be, but not the worst day ever.

Time to organize the bathroom. I certainly have been on an organization kick these past few days!

30 Before Thirty Revisited

2010-07-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

Ready to knock a few things off my list already!! Woot!

2. Go through the boxes in my closet and get rid of the junk.

6. Organize my computer closet.

18. Clean out and organize the cabinets in my living room.

27. Ride a mechanical bull.

Bonus: I made a nifty picture out of the postcards that came with Beatles Rock Band. It will fit in nicely with 15. Set-up a super swanky bar in my dining room.

Going Low GI

2010-07-20T17:46:00.000-07:00

After that week in Sacramento I was definitely feeling extra fatty. Aside from the fact that I was really backed up the entire time I was there, I also ate horribly. Alcohol every night, fatty foods, lots of sweets. It all adds up, and by the time I got back I was about 3lbs up!! I know right! Insanity!

Getting back on track hasn't exactly been easy. But last night I was perusing a website that was talking about fad diets. One diet that was mentioned was the South Beach Diet. I checked it out, and low and behold phase 2/3 was very similar to how I was eating when I began to lose those 19lbs. Weird. I just naturally did it. And it worked!

The South Beach Diet is based on the glycemic index (GI). Basically, the GI is a scale that rates carb rich foods based on how they affect blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body. Some foods have a high glycemic index which means that glucose levels spike very quickly. These spikes cause you to feel hungry sooner, and can make you want to eat even more of those high GI foods (cravings). In contrast, foods with a low glycemic index cause only small fluctuations in glucose levels and help your body maintain a healthy weight by delaying hunger and allowing for better appetite control.

I found some handy websites that list the GIs of common foods, and that has been very helpful in planning my meals (although today is only day 1, so I mean really, how much planning have I really done??). You don't have to eat only low GI foods (GI levels less than 55), but it is recommended that if you do consume high GI foods (GI levels greater than 70) that you are also eating low GI foods to balance it out. Additionally, there are also intermediate GI foods as well (GI levels 55- 70).

My goal will be to eat mostly low GI foods with some intermediate GIs mixed in. I will try to limit the amount of high GI foods, but I have found that I am most successful when nothing is off limits. Just being back home and cooking/not eating out for every meal I have found that I am already almost back down to 132lbs.

In tracking my food from here on out I will list the GI numbers of each food (so long as I can locate it; otherwise I will simply indicate whether it is considered L- eat away, I- enjoy some, or H- whoa dude, slow down!) in addition to the calories. It should be noted that the GI number remains the same regardless of quantity of that food that is consumed.

1/2 cup oatmeal: 150 calories (48- L)
1Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories (100- H)
2 slices whole wheat bread: 220 calories (68- I)
2 eggs: 140 calories (0- L)
String cheese: 80 calories (I)
3 oz trimmed, lean cut of beef: 171 calories (0- L)
Veggies: 110 (0- L)
Sauce: 81 calories (100- H, due to sugar in sauce)
5 oz Merlot: 118 calories (L)
Total: 1115 calories (L: 5, I: 2, H: 2)

30 Before Thirty

2010-07-09T06:24:00.000-07:00

I turn 30 February 14, 2012. That gives me about a year and a half to get it done. We'll see how that goes.....

1. Finish my bedroom painting.
2. Go through the boxes in my closet and get rid of the junk.
3. Donate all my old clothes.
4. Lose those last 7lbs.
5. Sell/Get rid of Kelso once and for all.
6. Organize my computer closet.
7. Make an origami crane.
8. Go bungee jumping.
9. Eat at The Melting Pot with my husband.
10. Vacation in Vegas.
11. Wine tasting after taking a winery tour of Chateau Ste. Michelle.
12. Pay off my credit card.
13. Use something I've grown myself in a meal.
14. Find the perfect cut for my curly hair.
15. Set-up a super swanky bar in my dining room.
16. Make a giant beanbag chair for my office.
17. Get all of my tattoos touched up.
18. Clean out and organize the cabinets in my living room.
19. Fill up a modern vase with origami Mario stars.
20. Create a great eating space on my balcony.
21. Visit the Museum of Glass.
22. Print out some of the best photos stored on my computer.
23. Get a new couch. Finally!
24. Strut my stuff in an actual bikini (no board shorts allowed).
25. Go dancing at Masa.
26. Run in another 5K. And pay this time!
27. Ride a mechanical bull.
28. Fly a kite.
29. Make my own citronella candle.
30. Get to 200 posts on my blog.

*Idea stolen from Nicole over at Making it Lovely.

I Am Sooo Full Right Now

2010-06-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

Even though the workout streak really didn't happen, I did workout and I ate very reasonably today:
English muffin: 130 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
Small apple: 60 calories
1/2 cup edamame: 120 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
English muffin (needed a snack!!): 130 calories
Stuffing casserole with 1/4 cup edamame: 433 calories
Freeze dried ice cream: 110 calories
Total: 1163 calories

I am going to a wedding tomorrow with my friend Briana. It should be very fun. Not sure what I'm going to wear yet, but I'm leaning towards a dress I wore when my sister got married. It's light and airy (which is good because I get really sweaty really easily), and is a perfect outdoor dress. I'm not sure why I'm just assuming the wedding will be outdoors, it's likely to be inside. Either way, the weather is pretty nice today, but that really doesn't mean much when it comes to Washington. Sunny one day, rainy and cold the next.

My little brother will be 27 on Wednesday! I plan on picking up donuts from our favorite place and heading over and waking him up! "Lil' brother, lil' brother...." Yea, he'll love it! ;)

Condo Stalking In Seattle

2010-06-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

Olive 8
Downtown Seattle
2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths
1586 Sq. Ft.
$1.295 Million

Gorgeous wood floors, amazing views, a sprawling space that is both modern and inviting. What's not to love?

Don't Do It!

2010-06-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

Whatever you do, do NOT click this link.
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You clicked it didn't you?
*shakes head and sighs*

Be Still My Beating Heart

2010-06-26T07:27:00.001-07:00

Found the most amazing pictures EVAH on I Can Has Internets. Enjoy!

Found The Couch, Now Where Will I Get The Money

2010-06-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

I love shopping for furniture. It is a favorite past-time of mine. I love shopping online, I love browsing catalogs, and I love roaming through furniture stores. We might be able to get a couch around Christmas time, maybe not. But if we can swing it, I really want it. After searching and searching, and taking the advice of friends and family to not get a couch from IKEA (although look at this, it's so damn pretty and totally my style),

I have finally come across something that I really like. And guess what? Darrick likes it too!

The ottoman isn't an exact match, but it's pretty close. This particular couch does not have an ottoman in the set, so I had to find something similar in color and style.

What I really need to do is win the lotto ;)

Getting Back Into My Groove

2010-06-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

I'm not even going to address how I've eaten the past few days (but damn Flippin' Out is good!), but I did finally break my exercise drought yesterday. I did a 12 minute workout and I am feeling it today. I know what you're thinking: 12 minutes Denise? Really? But it was seriously hardcore! Going as hard as possible for 12 minutes straight is wicked hard. I found a pretty sweet online interval timer which really helped me push myself to the limit during my workout. Here's what the workout looked like:

OMG Sexy Body Workout (2 Rounds Through)

1) Front Jump Kicks for 50 seconds, 10 second break

2) Walking Push Ups with Plank Side Jumps for 50 seconds, 10 second break

3) Skater Lunge Jump Left Leg for 50 seconds, 10 second break

4) Skater Lunge Jump Right Leg for 50 seconds, 10 second break

5) Side Leg Lift and Butt Lift – to the left for 50 seconds, 10 second break

6) Side Leg Lift and Butt Lift – to the right for 50 seconds, 10 second break

I was dripping sweat by the end. It felt good to workout again. I'm going to see if I can make a streak. I'm going for 3 days in a row on this workout, and then I'll check out another workout.

Here's what's on my plate for today:
1/2 cup oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories
1/2 cup edamame: 60 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
Small apple: 60 calories
5oz guacamole and gorgonzola burger: 400 calories
French fries: 130 calories
3Tb ketchup: 45 calories
Freeze dried ice cream: 110 calories
Total: 1180 calories

Is It Payday Yet?

2010-06-24T07:17:00.000-07:00

The end of every June and November are awesome. I get paid at the end of every month, and the way my contract works I have it set up so I receive a little "bonus" at the end of June and November. It's pretty sweet because one comes in time for Christmas shopping and the other for summer. I am super stoked to go shopping and pick up some things Darrick and I have been wanting for a long time now and just haven't been able to afford until now.

First up, a chest freezer. Darrick is OBSESSED with grocery shopping. He gets excited when the ads come out, likes to go at least once a week, and always wants to stock up like some sort of crazy food hoarder. It's good for the most part, but sometimes we do have to throw things out because they get past the expiration date before we get around to using it. The one thing we can never stock up on right now is meat though. And that's something I agree we should stock up on when there's a sweet sale. Unfortunately the freezer in our apartment is pretty standard and won't accommodate enough meat for a nuclear fallout. Darrick has been doing the leg work on this one, so I'm not exactly sure which one he wants to get. It will be around $250 delivered though.

Something I have talked about before and has yet to come to fruition is a new bed. Well the time is NOW! I am very excited about this one. There isn't really anything wrong with the bed that we have right now. It's relatively comfortable, but we want to go up a size. Darrick is pretty hesitant about a Sealy Postuerpedic because he thinks those are for old people. So I did my homework and convinced him that an old people bed would be just fine.

I was diligent in my search for a mattress that was plush, had over 700 coils, came with a low profile box spring. Grand total for this bad boy (mattress with shipping, old mattress haul away, and the split box springs) is $704.99. Not too shabby. We have king size sheets so we will need to pick up a fitted queen sheet, but we can still use the pillow cases and flat sheet from the king set. Our comforter is also getting a bit ratty and needs to be replaced, and I would love some new pillows so I picked out those as well. The pillows are buy one get one free which is a pretty nice deal. So for around $850 we will have a brand new bed setup for an awesome night's sleep.

We are finally going to get our accent wall in the living room painted (which reminds me, I should probably go get that scheduled). We took a trip to Lowes on Tuesday, and I was totally distracted by the gardening/outdoor section. Darrick says the balcony is an automatic "no" zone, but I'll wear him down eventually. ;) The whole reason for going was to check out paint. We grabbed some samples and brought them home to see which one we liked best. I have a soft spot for Valspar's Posh Red. It's bright, but not too dark. I think it will look super swank.

The picture does not do it justice. It's looks kind of purpley in the picture, but in person it's a nice deep red. Love!We have some red pillows on our couch right now, but they just won't mesh well with the new wall color, although I could be wrong. I'm therefore on the hunt for some pillow covers that will go well. IKEA is having a sale right now, so a friend and I will be wandering through after payday. Can't wait! I love going to IKEA, especially when I plan on buying things! On my list to pickup:

Inno Inez Curtain Panel

I plan on cutting this baby to fit in the back of our bookcase. The bookcase is on the wall that will be painted, and I'm hoping it will add some additional interest to the wall as we will likely not be putting up any art. We just haven't found any art that we both love, and I have no clue when we will.

I really like the look of those dried flower balls that seem to be in everyone's houses, but if I can't find them in colors other than yellow I'm not going to do it.

I think I've rambled on enough for now. Peace up, A town down. Dodo dodo, dodo dodo, YEAH!!!

Reboot

2010-06-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

Not this:

This:
Current Stats:
Weight- 134- 133lbs (-11- 12lbs)*qualified below
Measurements:
Neck- 12.5" (-.5")
Upper Arms- 10.75" (-.5")
Bust- 32" (-4")
Waist- 28.5" (-1.75")
Stomach- 32.5" (-3.5")
Hips/Butt- 41" (-2")
Thighs- 22.5" (-1.5")
Shins- 12.75" (-1.25")
Calves- 7.75" (-.5")
Total Inches Lost- 15.5"

Now that summer is here, I'm all about losing those last few 8 or 9lbs.

Planned Intake For Today:
1/2 Cup oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories
Tea, tea, tea!!!: 0 calories
Small apple: 75 calories
1/4 Cup edamame: 60 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
Dinner: 565 calories
Total: 1075 calories- 125 calories for a brownie perhaps?? :)

*Just a quick reminder that this number is from the time I grabbed that shovel. Total weight loss since visiting the doctor at the end of March: 16- 17lbs

Taking A Short Blogging Break

2010-06-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Not that I have a million posts or anything like that, but I've been very busy with these last few days of school and with playing LOTRO. I'll be back on Thursday.

Oh Frosting, You'll Be The Death of Me

2010-06-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

Was doing well today until I decided to spoon some chocolate frosting. That certainly put me over.

In other more pleasant news, today at work I spent a good deal of time rearranging my office. I've got a lot to do before the end of the year including cleaning out my storage closet, ordering books for next year, a bit of cleaning, and getting all off our AB logs under the new system. Should be fun (seriously, I love that kind of stuff!!).

Rearranging my office led to a summer project, creating my own jumbo bean bag type chair for my office. I need a fatty bean bag chair for kids to lounge in while in my office. It's totally going to be a ghetto bag. I can't wait to get up pictures of this beast when it comes to fruition. ;)

Intake for the day:1/2 cup oatmeal: 150 calories
1Tb light brown sugar: 45 calories
Tea, tea, tea!!!: 0 calories
Small apple: 75 calories
Yogurt: 100 calories
String cheese: 80 calories
Two handful of cheese popcorn: 100 calories
Mini 3 Musketeers: 25 calories
Wendy's caesar side salad and small chili with two saltine crackers: 440 calories
3Tb chocolate frosting: 200 calories
Total: 1215 calories (may in actuality be about 50 more calories than that, but not really super certain that I only had 3Tb of frosting, *sigh*)